Mental health disorders

9 symptoms of mental illness

When there has been a significant change to someone's behaviour, or they are having a hard time managing their feelings, they may be among the one in five Australians dealing with a mental health issue.

Learn how to recognise the 9 signs of mental illness. If you're concerned about a friend or loved one, ask them how you can help. If you're worried a person you know is at immediate risk of suicide or self-harm, dial triple zero (000).

More serious mental health problems, such as manic depression and schizophrenia, require specialist care. Your doctor will refer you to a specialist called a 'psychiatrist' who will be able to care for these serious health problems.

If you and your doctor agree that you would benefit from medication, there are various options that can help with conditions such as anxiety, depression, insomnia, mania and other mental health problems.

Living with a mental health disorder

There is evidence that good mental wellbeing is important for our physical health, and that it can help us achieve the goals we set for ourselves.

Many factors influence our wellbeing. Evidence shows that the actions we take and the way we think have the biggest impact. There are five steps we can all take to improve our mental wellbeing:

Stay connected: make an effort to develop relationships with family and friends and colleagues.

The Personal Helpers and Mentors (PHaMs) service aims to increase recovery opportunities for people whose lives are severely affected by their experience of mental illness. There is some eligibility criteria, and more information can be found on their website: www.fahcsia.gov.au.